James Eugene Friant Sr., 55, of La Porte, IN, passed away peacefully at 8:04 p.m. Sunday, Oct.20, 2019, in his home.

He was born June 9, 1964, in La Porte to Edward Eugene and Virginia May (Richardson) Friant.

James attended The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, La Porte. He enjoyed fishing, riding Harley motorcycles and especially spending time with his grandchildren.

On Dec. 12, 2015, in Michigan City, IN, he married Charlene R. (Keigley) Friant, who survives.

Also surviving are his mother, Virginia (Dennis Friant) Cordova Friant of La Porte; his father, Edward (Carol) Friant of Missouri; four sons, James E. (Heather) Friant Jr. of La Porte, John E. Friant of Oklahoma, and Samuel M. Friant and Gordon F. Friant II, both of South Bend, IN; one daughter, Jessie D. Friant Back of La Porte; stepson, Carl A. Stuckey of Princeton, IL; four sisters, Deborah J. Friant Thorton of La Porte, Tuliea Q. Friant Wittika of Arizona, La Lainya L. (Scottie) Anderson Jefferies of Jensen Beach, FL, and Bonnie J. (Karen) White of Valparaiso, IN; aunt and uncle, Sally and Francisco Loza; nine half siblings; 29 grandchildren; 11 nieces and nephews; and 16 great-nieces and great-nephews.

Preceding him in death were his brother, Gordon F. Friant; maternal grandparents, Kenneth and Edna Richardson; paternal grandparents, Edward and Marjorie Friant; and one nephew, Darnell R. Friant.

Cremation will take place. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, La Porte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Rd., La Porte, IN 46350 (219-362-3100).

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at  www.LakeviewFHC.com.

Jari L. Gropp, 74, of La Porte, IN, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2019, at Miller Health and Rehabilitation, La Porte.

She was born Sept. 28, 1945, in La Porte to Norman A. and Gloria J. (Dorman) Marsden.

Jari was a  receptionist for many years at La Porte Animal Hospital. Her favorite pastimes included knitting, dancing, reading and playing cards. Jari enjoyed visiting flea markets. She loved her flowers, especially her lilies. Jari enjoyed spending time and playing marbles with her grandchildren. She loved her family dearly and her 3 children were her greatest pride and joy.

On June 7, 1974, in La Porte, she married Richard A. Gropp, who survives.

Also surviving are her children, Greg Bienz of New Haven, William (Angie) Kane Jr. of La Porte and Jeana Kane of Valparaiso, IN; 4 grandchildren, Gloria Beth Kane, James Kane, Branden Kane and William Kane; 2 great-grandchildren, Adriana Kane and Isaak Napier; and sister-in-law, Dawn Marsden of Dallas, TX.

She was preceded in death by her parents; 2 brothers, Fred and James Marsden; grandparents, Ulrey and Mildred Dorman and Mabel Marsden; and uncles, James Dorman and Kenneth Marsden.

Visitation will be held at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte, from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, and from 9 to 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 25. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Graceland Cemetery, Valparaiso.

Memorial donations may be made to the La Porte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 W. Ind. 2, La Porte, IN 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at  www.cutlercares.com.

Donna Joan Lennox, 68, passed away Monday, Oct. 21, 2019, at La Porte Hospital.

She was born Jan. 5, 1951, in Indianapolis, IN, to George and Phyllis (Mascoe) Russell.

Donna was an avid deer hunter.  She also enjoyed fishing, camping and any other outdoor activity.

On Oct. 13, 1979, in Indianapolis, she married James Lennox, who survives.

Also surviving are her children, Lisa (Dale) McGinty of Mill Creek, IN, Sandy (Ron Smeaton) Johnson of La Porte, IN, Connie Brownlee of La Porte, Levi Johnson of La Porte, Ashley (T.J.) Baker of Beaver, OH, and Curtiss (Ashley) Lennox of La Porte; grandchildren, John, Brooke, James (Brittany) and Mallorie Tanksley, Christopher and Sydney Ward, Alyssa Johnson, Carter Morse, Collin Johnson, Jeremy and Ryan McGinty, Lorne, Glenn, Tyler and Kyle Brownlee, Jacob and Cheyenne Proud, and Kylee Baker; great-grandchildren, Braydon, Brinley, Emmitt, and Wyatt Tanksley, Elliot Lopez, Annabella and Kayden Ward, Jolene, Kasey, and Paisley McGinty, Austin, Emma, and Breanna Brownlee, and William Lennox; 4 siblings, Carol (Larry) Curl, Cathy (Bill) Ray, Angie (John) Elsbury, and Jerry (Carla) Russell, all of Indianapolis; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; great-granddaughter, Brianna Tanksley; and brother, George Russell.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A private family service will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o James Lennox, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, IN 46350.

“Mom, you taught us right from wrong. Mom, you were always there when we needed you.  Mom, you took us under your wing to guide us, love us, and to be a strong woman and never give up.  Mom, you where not just a Mom.  You where the best Mom to everyone who came in your life.  You showed so much love.  A Grandma, you were the best ever.  You played.  You loved.  You taught.  You never let them go without.  You spoiled them.  They never wanted to leave Grandma’s.”

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Diana Lynn Euler, 47, of La Porte, IN, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, at Franciscan Health, Michigan City, IN.

She was born Nov. 18, 1971, in La Porte to Kenneth E. and Rose M. (Eckstein) Euler.

Diana worked in data entry at a furniture store.  She enjoyed playing computer games, especially Candy Crush.

Surviving are her brother, Kevin (Debra) Euler of La Porte; sister, Lisa Spoon of South Bend, IN; nieces, Amber (Billy) Hoggatt of La Porte, Emily Spoon of South Bend, and Zachary Hunnicutt of Walkerton, IN; and great-nieces and great-nephews, Jacob and Jayden Hoggatt of La Porte, and Izzabellah Spoon of South Bend.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Oak Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family c/o Kevin Euler, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, IN 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Robert Lee Hunter, 70, of Spring, TX, passed away Oct. 1, 2019. 

Bob was a man known for his generosity, his sense of adventure, and his sharp wit. He was socially and politically active, supporting causes and candidates that mattered to him.

Bob served as a certified Harris County Deputy Voter Registration Registrar, regularly participating in voter registration drives. He supported numerous charitable causes throughout his life, including Special Olympics and various hunger programs.  Shortly before his untimely death, he was undergoing Meals on Wheels volunteer training.

A retired geologist, Bob was passionate about skiing, cycling, space/astronomy, photography, gold mining, and especially skydiving. Bob was certified as an instructor and jumpmaster by the United States Parachute Association and was known for his generous and thoughtful mentoring of new skydivers. He had logged more than 8,000 jumps, with an emphasis on formation diving.  He leaves behind a mourning skydiving community.

Bob grew up in Indiana, graduating from North Liberty High School and Purdue University.  He served in the U.S. Army as a radio operator, and later in the Reserves.

He is survived by his brother, Don Hunter of La Porte, IN; his nine nieces and nephews of Indiana, Ohio, Alaska and New Jersey; and several cousins in Indiana.

He was preceded in death by his parents, M.C. Hunter and Mildred Hunter, sisters Lois Thomas and Joan Marshall, sister-in-law Linda Hunter, brothers-in-law Bob Thomas and Paul Marshall, and nephew Mike Marshall.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP.

Richard Lynn Hostetler, 72, of New Carlisle, IN, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2019, at his residence.

He was born March 17, 1947, in La Porte, IN, the son of James and Thelma (Wiltfong) Hostetler.

Richard was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and the VFW, and served his country in the Army. Richard always loved to camp and has been at the Last Resort Campground since 1999, where he enjoyed doing maintenance around the campground. 

In 1985, Richard married Sharon (Krueger) Hostetler, who survives.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, James and Thelma (Wiltfong) Hostetler.

Cremation has taken place at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, La Porte. Interment will follow at a later date at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Royal Order of Moose, 925 Boyd Blvd., La Porte, IN 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.

Maxine Vera (Jamieson) Spenner, 88, of La Porte, IN, passed away Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019.

She was born Nov. 26, 1930, in Crown Point, IN, to Ray Jamieson and Gladys Wylie.

Maxine taught school in St. Joseph County, La Porte County, Porter County and Lake County. She graduated from Ball State University with a bachelor’s and master’s degree. She was a member of Door Village United Methodist Church and Post 83 American Legion Auxiliary, where she served as Sergeant of Arms for a few years. She then became the service officer and first collected yarn and slippers and necessary clothes for the service men and women in the hospitals. She belonged to Scipio Township Farm Bureau, where she served as treasurer and was the representative on the Township Staff Council. Maxine was the President of La Porte County Home Extension from 1983–1985. In 1987 she organized the Road program La Porte Literacy Coalition and served as president for four years and later served as secretary. In the ’80s she belonged to Women’s Democratic Club of La Porte, where she was publicity chair and recreation leader for many activities.  She also worked many days at election time at the headquarters. In 1986 she took the first course on water safety with the Michigan City Power Squadron, where she served as Publicity Secretary Executive and Commander in 1990.  She took all of the classes and received Navigation status.  She also worked for two years at the boat show and was the only woman instructor teaching classes. She was in parades and taught safety classes regularly.  Maxine received a 25-year pin and the Clarence Moore award.

On Aug. 7, 1954, Maxine married Gene Spenner, who preceded her in death on July 21, 1989.

Maxine is survived by two sons, Dean (Ruth) Spenner of Indianapolis, IN, and Richard (Jill) Spenner; two grandchildren, Emily Knudsen and Allison Smith; one great-grandson, Conrad Smith; and six siblings.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and eight siblings.

Visitation will be from 9-11:30 a.m. CST Friday, Nov. 1, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, La Porte. A funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. CST in the funeral home. Pastor Bob Denney will officiate. Burial will follow in Door Village Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to The New Day Foundation, P.O. Box 13, La Porte, IN 46352-0013; or The Columbus, Indiana, Children’s Choir, 4600 Sunset Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46208.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.esslingfuneralhome.com.

Roman F. Dickt Jr., 68, of La Porte, IN, passed away peacefully at 8:45 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, in his home.

He was born Sept. 25, 1951, in La Porte to Roman F. Dickt Sr. and Frankie Gene (Johnson) Clanton.

Roman honorably served his country in the United States Army. He worked for several years in carpentry in the Chicago area with his father. Roman enjoyed taking his wife, Darlene, out to dinner and a movie.

On Sept. 13, 2014, in La Porte, he married Darlene (Churchill) Miller-Dickt, who survives.

Also surviving are his three children, Stacy (Christy) Dickt, Shawn (Emily) Dickt and Stephanie Culp; one stepson, Shawn Colston; three close grandchildren, Alexzandria (Butch Maglio) Churchill, Brendan Colston and Corbin Baum; six grandchildren, Alexandra, Sarah, Emily, Cora and Penelope Dickt and Dylan Colston; seven great-grandchildren, Natalie, Emily, Michael, Sophia, Mylez, Lilly and Levi; and close buddy, Lucas Bealor.

Preceding him in death were his parents, grandparents, and son, Shane Dickt.

Cremation will take place. There will be no service. Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, La Porte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be directed to his wife, Darlene Miller-Dickt.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.LakeviewFHC.com.

Margie Graf, 84, of Fish Lake, IN, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2019, at her home.

She was born Oct. 27, 1935, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Edward Baker and Loretta (Clancy) Baker.

Margie was a longtime member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Fish Lake, where she attended Mass daily. Margie was a caring and giving person and spent endless hours feeding and caring for the homeless and those less fortunate. She started the Food Pantry at St. Anthony’s. She was a nursing instructor at Indiana University at South Bend and Thornton Community College in South Holland, IL. Margie was an avid reader and wrote a few books on her own. She truly loved knitting scarfs for her grandchildren and devoted her life to helping not only her family, but others, too. Lest we forget, Margie was a MAJOR Notre Dame fan and surrounded herself in Notre Dame memorabilia throughout her home. You always knew Margie was there supporting her team. 

On Sept. 17, 1955, she married Karl Graf, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by her four sons, Karl Graf, Eric (Christine) Graf, Kurt (Kelly) Graf and Mark (Janna) Graf; four daughters, Mary (Jerry) Campa, Noreen Graf, Helen (William) Bland and Margie Graf; 20 grandchildren, Jerry Jr., Anthony, David, Jayme, Rory, Amy, Isaac, Micah, Eric Jr., Ryan, Brianna, David, Marijo, James, Paul, Michael, Logan, Elias, Shaw, and Silas; and 19 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Friday, Nov. 1, from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, Nov. 2, at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Fish Lake, with Father Heimer officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, La Porte, IN.

Memorial contributions may be made to Poor Clare Monastery of the Immaculate Conception, 12210 S. Will Cook Rd., Palos Park, IL 60464.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at  www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.

Henry “Hank” G. Birkholz, 87, of La Porte, IN, passed away Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019, at Oak Woods Manor, La Porte.

He was born Nov. 7, 1931, in Galien, MI, to Henry and Gertrude (Snyder) Birkholz.

In February 1951, Hank entered into active duty with the U.S. Marine Corps.  Wounded in action in Korea, he earned a Purple Heart. Hank also earned the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, as well as other medals.

Hank owned Shaffner Tire Service for more than 30 years, retiring in 1993. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and outdoorsman.  Hank was a member of VFW Post 9423, Rolling Prairie, IN.

On June 2, 1951, in Oceanside, CA, he married Janet Sue Williams, who preceded him in death.

Surviving are his children, Michael (Debra) Birkholz of La Porte, David (Martha) Birkholz of La Porte, and Gay Lyn Birkholz (Tom Behny) of The Villages, FL; grandchildren, Kinlynn (Troy) Gill, Todd Birkholz, Beth Birkholz (Bill McCoy), Brooke Stines, Anna (Luke) Newcomb, and Jenna (Jon) Romond; 8 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Peggy (Charlie) Droege and Marilyn (Tom) Boyd, both of La Porte; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; brother, Robert Birkholz; and grandson, Ian Garrison.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte, with Pastor Roger Ash officiating. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 9 a.m. until the service at the funeral home. Burial with full military honors will follow at Heckman Memorial Cemetery, Hesston, IN.

Memorial donations may be made to VFW Post 9423, 4202 N 400 E, Rolling Prairie, IN 46371.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Robin Daisy Evans Jackson, 66, of Porter, IN, passed away peacefully at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2019, in her home.

She was born June 30, 1953, in Orville, OH, to Robert and Ruby Jean (Stanton) Salinas.

Robin was a transportation supervisor for Coach U.S.A. for 15 years and for Gary Public Transportation for 20 years. She enjoyed being a wife, mother and grandmother with her military sergeant attitude, especially bossing family and friends around. Robin showed her love for her family and friends through cooking, including cooking for her dogs. Her husband loved her dearly and always considered her special in his life.

On May 2, 1994, in Valparaiso, IN, she married Charles Raymond Jackson, who survives.

Also surviving are her five children, Kelli (Kevin) Austin of Westville, IN, Charles (Amy Dunn) Jackson II of Valparaiso, Ashley Kolivas of Modesto, CA, Shaun (Judy) Evans of Utah and Don Evans-Larkin of Florida; father-in-law, Charles H. Jackson I; brother, Tom (Mary Ann) Simonitis of New Jersey; sister, Deborah Tomes of Rittman, OH; son-in-law, Keith Austin; daughter-in-law, Cheryl Austin; sister-in-law, Carole Shane; six grandchildren, Brian Boo, Charles Jackson III, Dakota Tatro, Courtney Jackson, Cassidy Boo, and Stephanie Boo-Howe; one great-granddaughter, Lyssa Tatro; two nieces, Jennifer Nicksic and Hannah Tomes; nephew, Erick (Lori) Shane; special friends, Cheri Krueger, Janet Ahlders, Linda Alfaro, Ruth Lockhart, Marcia and John Pocius; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Robert Salinas and Ruby Jean Shane; grandparents, George and Daisy Mae Stanton; and two brothers, Larry Shane and William Simonitis.

A funeral celebrating her life will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, at Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, La Porte, IN, with Pastor James Bouslog officiating. Visitation and viewing will be held from 4 p.m. until the service Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to her husband, Charles Jackson.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.LakeviewFHC.com.

Wayne C. Ellinger, 86, of La Porte, IN, passed away Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019.

He was born June 21, 1933, in La Porte to Clarence and Kathryn (Garwood) Ellinger. 

Wayne was the owner of the Accurate Foam Company in La Porte. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in La Porte and served his country in the United States Army in Europe. He graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington, IN, and was an avid hunter, fisherman and traveler. 

On July 25, 1953, in La Porte, Wayne married Joanne M. Bigham, who preceded him in death on Nov. 9, 2015. 

Surviving are his children, Bradley (Stammy) Ellinger of La Porte, Cindy (Dennis) Kaplan of Granger, IN, and Gary (Lori) Ellinger of Bath, IN, and four grandchildren, Erin Schwermer and Meagan, Emily and Addie Ellinger.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Lloyd Ellinger. 

Visitation will be from 3-6 p.m. (CST) Wednesday, Nov. 6, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, La Porte. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. (CST) Thursday, Nov. 7, in the funeral home, where family and friends may visit one hour prior to the service. Pastor Ronald A. Brauer will officiate. Burial will follow in Door Village Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the La Porte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 W, Ind. 2, La Porte, IN 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.esslingfuneralhome.com.

Dorothy N. Wilber, 101, of La Porte, IN, passed away Friday, Nov. 1, 2019, at Miller’s Merry Manor in New Carlisle, IN.

She was born July 9, 1918, in Bakersfield, MO, to Arthur and Sarah (Fore) Cooper.

Dorothy was a member of Kingsbury Baptist Missionary Church. She enjoyed helping anyone she could with anything they needed, and being outside with her family.

On Sept. 14, 1936, in Ellettsville, IN, she married Albert G. Wilber, who preceded her in death on Nov. 19, 1987.

Surviving are her children, Mary (Virgil) Craft of Winamac, IN, Ruth (Bill) Stayback of Rolling Prairie, IN, Dave (Nancy) Wilber of La Porte and Doreen Harmon of La Porte; several grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; sister, Daisy Szatkowski of Terre Haute, IN; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded by her parents; husband; daughter, Betty Boerema; son, Frank Wilber; granddaughter, Debra L. Boerema; and 2 brothers.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Nicholas Anthony Seibert, 22, of La Porte, IN, died Nov. 2, 2019, at his home in Rolling Prairie, IN.  

He was born June 4, 1997, in La Porte, son of Michael Seibert and Deborah (Nelson) Parsons.

Nicholas worked as a Metal Fabricator for Arconic in La Porte. His passion in life was to be with his family. He loved his dogs, Koda and Shyla. Koda was at his side when he passed away. He enjoyed 4-wheeling, playing pool, darts, and video games, as well as camping and building bonfires. Nicholas listened to all kinds of music.

Surviving are his mother, Deborah (Don) Parsons; father, Michael Seibert; sisters, Emily and Anna Seibert; step-sisters, Carolyn and Taylor; step-brothers, Michael, Matt and Donald; two grandmothers, Chris Kado and Venita Miller; his stepmother, Sue; special friend, Amanda Chambers; and many cousins, aunts and uncles.

Nicholas was preceded in death by his nephew, Ayzen Schomer, and his grandfather, Carl H. Seibert.

Visitation will be Wednesday, Nov. 6, from 5-8 p.m. at Haverstock Funeral Home, La Porte. A funeral service will be held Thursday, Nov. 7, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Wilborn and Pastor Doug officiating. Interment will follow in Pine Lake Cemetery, La Porte.

Contributions may be made to the La Porte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 W, Ind. 2, La Porte, IN 46350, in his honor.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.

Ronald Allen White, 72, formerly of La Porte, IN, and currently of Indianapolis, IN, and Naples, FL, passed away at home with his family on Nov. 2, 2019. 

He was born in La Porte on Dec. 23, 1946, to Willis and Beatrice (Wilcox) White.  He was the youngest of 7 children: Gerald (Arvilla), Richard, Larry (Dorothy) and Anita Philips. Preceded in death by his sister Carrol Wiggins and brother Darcey (LuAnn).

Ron graduated from New Prairie High School and from Ball State University with a Master’s in Education. Ron first taught and coached at New Prairie, and then for the La Porte Community School Corporation for 35 years. He was a member of the La Porte Elks as well as Theta Xi Fraternity. He was also a past President of the La Porte County Homebuilders Association. Ron was an avid golfer, woodworker, artist and home builder. 

Ron’s sparkling blue eyes and sense of humor will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him. His love of family and playing card games knew no bounds.

Ron is survived by his wife of 49 years, Linda (Rosenau); daughters, Kember (Chris) Martin of Indianapolis, Tera (Sameer) Varde of Bloomfield Hills, MI, Lindsey (Beau) Kerley of Georgetown, IN, and son Brandon (Lyla) White of Brooktondale, NY; and 7 grandchildren, Kaelin and Garrett Martin, Rosemary White, Taj and Tre Varde, and Finn and Shealee Kerley.

Visitation will be Sunday, Nov. 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a Celebration of Life beginning at 1 p.m. at G.H. Herrmann Funeral Home, 5141 Madison Ave., Indianapolis. 

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Dementia Society of America @ dementiasociety.org.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP.

Donna C. Beecher, 59, passed away Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, at VNA Hospice Center, Valparaiso, IN.

She was born May 31, 1960, in Marietta, GA, to Barbara Ann (Barton) Bannister.

Donna was a stay-at-home mom for many years, raising her two sons. She was a member of First Church of God. Donna enjoyed spending time at home, baking and doing arts and crafts. She loved collecting Coke memorabilia.  Most importantly, Donna enjoyed taking care of people and helping others in need.

On Dec. 22, 1986, in Atlanta, GA, she married Roger Beecher, who preceded her in death.

Surviving are her sons, Shane Beecher of Michigan City, IN, and Corey Beecher of La Porte, IN; 2 brothers, Gary Clark of La Porte and Doug (Annette) Clark of Woodstock, GA; stepfather, Earl (Mary) Bannister; beloved dog, Reggie; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and sister, Elizabeth Clark.

A Memorial Service will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, at Lighthouse Church, 2699 N. Ind. 39, La Porte. Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Shane Beecher, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, IN 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at  www.cutlercares.com.

Doris Ann Hurni, 90, of La Porte, IN, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019, at VNA of NWI Hospice Center, Valparaiso, IN.

She was born June 6, 1929, in Walkerton, IN, to Kenneth E. and Dorothy A. (Bradford) Hostetler.

Doris was a clerk at the Porter County Airport, a secretary at First Christian Church, and also worked at the Union Mills Farm Bureau Co-Op. She was a member of Bethel Presbyterian Church, where she served in the evening circle. Doris enjoyed being of service to other people and spending time with family.

On Aug. 20, 1949, at First Christian Church in La Porte, she married Maurice LeRoy Hurni, who preceded her in death on May 1, 2019.

Surviving are her beloved children, David A. (Ann) Hurni of Westville, IN, Michael J. Hurni of La Porte, Susan G. (Harold) Barr of La Porte, and Ken P. (Julie) Hurni of Union Mills, IN; daughter-in-law, Charlotte Hurni of Valparaiso; 7 grandchildren, Edward (Kelly) Hurni, Kevin (Rebecca) Hurni, Sarah Romancheck, Douglas (Jess) Hurni, Erin (Breyon) Wilson, Jane Barr, and Ben Barr; 14 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; sister, Bonnie Joyce Mead of Valparaiso; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Steven L. Hurni; and brother, Robert L Hostetler.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at noon Saturday, Nov. 9, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte, with Pastor Gretchen Gibbs officiating. Burial will follow at Union Mills Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the service Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Bethel Presbyterian Church, 110 E. Hamilton St., Union Mills, IN 46382.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at  www.cutlerfuneralhome.com.

Carol Mae Haas, 89, of La Porte, IN, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2019, at 3:50 p.m. in Trail Creek Place, Michigan City, IN.

She was born Nov. 19, 1929, in Michigan City to the late Ambrose and Florence (Levendoski) Schultz.

Carol was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Michigan City. She was a loving wife and mother. Carol had a love for nature, and had a great sense of humor. She was a woman of great faith and had a big heart. One of Carol’s greatest joys was hosting family gatherings and being with her family.

On July 3, 1952, in Michigan City, she married Patrick Haas, who survives in Michigan City.

Also surviving are five daughters, Karen Haas, Mary (Gary) Loyd, Chris (Tom) Osborn, Maureen (Darin) Salyer and Eileen Haas; three sons, Mike (JoEllen) Haas, Tim (Andi) Haas and Bill (Kristi) Haas; 21 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Buffalo and 10th streets, Michigan City, with Rev. Kevin Huber officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, Michigan City. Visitation will be from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Share Foundation for the Handicapped, P.O. Box 400, Rolling Prairie, IN 46371.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.otthaverstock.com.

Russell J. Bohn, 92, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019, at Franciscan Health Michigan City, IN, after a very brief illness.

He was born Sept. 25, 1927, in Havelock, IA, to Merle and Elsie (Smith) Bohn.

Russell graduated from Spirit Lake High School in Spirit Lake, IA, in 1945.  He served in the U.S. Army within the Finance Department of the Air Corps. In 1951, he graduated from Iowa State University with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He retired after 36 years as a mechanical engineer.  Russell was also a registered professional engineer in the state of Indiana and held a license as an Indiana Real Estate Broker. He was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church of Michigan City, where he was an ordained Elder; Michigan City Exchange Club; MC Senior Center; 76’ers Golf League; Elks 432; American Legion Post 451; and Meals on Wheels. He served on the board of directors for the La Porte County Council on Aging, on the advisory board of the La Porte County Solid Waste District, and on the board of the Flying Carpet Travelogue.

He loved playing pool, working puzzles, and collecting hats from his and his wife Joyce’s travels around the world. But his real passion was playing golf. He has gone to play golf in heaven and hopes his score improves.  Russell was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was happily married to his best friend, Joyce, for 68 years. Russell will be remembered as a kind and thoughtful person with a sense of humor. He was a positive asset wherever he went. He always provided good and moral leadership at home, church and his civic activities. Michigan City is a better place because he was there. He will be missed by many friends and family.

Surviving are his wife, Joyce; children, Lee (Mary) Bohn of Bethel, VT, and Lynn (Jim) Maritch of Portland, OR; granddaughter, Emily (C.R.) Moultry; 2 great-grandchildren, Riley and Aria Moultry; siblings, Shirley Mann of Spirit Lake, IA, and Karen Powell of Chester, NJ; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Kris Bohn; sister, Marcille Blair; and brother, Arlo Bohn.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A private family service will be scheduled at a future date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church of Michigan City, 121 W. 9th St., Michigan City, IN 46360.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at  www.cutlercares.com.

Michael Lynn South, 63, passed away Friday, Nov. 8, 2019, at his home.

He was born Aug. 2, 1956, in Gatesville, TX, to Fred and Barbara (Vitch) South.

Michael worked as a truck driver. He loved woodworking and fishing with his friends.

On April 21, 1984, in Valparaiso, IN, he married Susan Klitzka, who survives.

Also surviving are his daughter, Amanda (Bub) Minix of La Porte; siblings, David (Carla) South of La Porte and Stephen (Lori) South of Schaumburg, IL; sister-in-law, Crystal (Charles) Westphal of Burns Harbor, IN; father-in-law, Glenn (Chris) Klitzka of Surprise, AZ; aunt, Mary Anne Pererira of Turley, OK; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Brandy Furlong.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Susan South, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, IN 46350.

Messages of condolences may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.